Private schools lose High Court challenge over VAT changes

Three high court judges have rejected a judicial review into the government's policy of adding VAT to private school fees.

Lawyers representing families and private schools had argued that the policy was discriminatory and in breach of human rights law.

Julie Robinson, CEO of the Independent Schools Council, which represented some of the families said it is carefully considering the court's judgment and next steps.

The government defended the policy in court saying it would raise £1.8bn a year by 2029/30 which it would spend on raising standards in the state sector.